The Gambling Regulations Bill of Ireland is set to be finalised this summer and to go to the Government for a vote in September. As explained by James Browne, the Minister of State for Law Reform at the Department of Justice, the establishment of a long-expected gambling regulatory body in the country is also expected to be advertised in September.
Reportedly, under the changes, a gambling “tsar” will have s staff of up to 100 independent experts, as the Irish Government finally proceeds with the rules and regulations of the new legislative framework aimed at bringing significant changes in the local gambling sector.
Mr Browne hopes that the country will see one of the most crucial pieces of legislation in the past decade signed into law in the next few months. He further noted that the gambling “tsar” will be fully independent and explained that Irish lawmakers have decided that whoever takes over the role will be supported by specialists, with the overall number of staff set at 100.
The Minister of State for Law Reform at the Department of Justice noted that the regulatory body and the board will be given the powers to fine gambling companies. They will also have the right to revoke gambling licences.
Gambling Regulatory Body Set to Be Established as Part of the Legislation Overhaul
As revealed by Mr Browne, there will be not only public health specialists to give advice on the detrimental impact that problem gambling could have on people’s mental health, but also experts who operate in the field of money laundering, fraud and terrorist financing. He said there is always the potential for criminals to wash some dirty money through the gambling industry.
The member of Dáil Éireann, the lower house of the Irish Parliament (the Oireachtas), revealed that the much-expected gambling watchdog and board will be given far-reaching powers. This means that if gambling operators are found to have breached the code of conduct, there will be fines, not to mention their licences could be fully revoked by the gambling regulator.
Mr Browne said that the much-expected new gambling law will cover every aspect of gambling. Furthermore, it will be comprehensive and will not need a further update.
Under the new Irish gambling law, there will be an opportunity for people dealing with problem gambling behaviour to opt-out of gambling services. Individuals who want to self-exclude themselves from the services and no longer be permitted to place bets would have to provide their bank account details, which will be submitted to all gambling outlets in the country, and will be unable to gamble with these companies online anymore. The self-exclusion option is voluntary and will serve as an addiction register for those who are fighting their compulsive gambling habits.
As stricter regulation of gambling advertising will also be established under the new laws, with the new gambling watchdog becoming responsible for the regulation of gambling ads. The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland will no longer be able to regulate the practice. Irish people will not be permitted to use their credit cards to fund gambling activities, and gambling incentives such as special offers, which are aimed at encouraging people to gamble more and more will be suspended.
- Author
Daniel Williams
